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Experiencing “Gethsemane” in modern times.

Throughout our lifetime, we will experience overwhelming circumstances even deep suffering that will bring us closer to God and strengthen the core of our souls and Faith.

In the book of Ecclesiastes 7: 14, Solomon reminded us how God created both adversity and prosperity in our lives. So, praise Him everyday regardless of our suffering or current state of mind. Today is a gift from God.

I view these harsh circumstances or adversity as life-altering “Gethsemane moments”.

Yes!

Adversity can be emotionally, intellectually and physically taxing. Uncertainties are stressful indeed. These life experiences may be filled with agony, sorrow, grief, and/or despair.

In the book of Matthew 26, Jesus modeled a prayerful life. Jesus poured his soul to our Abba Father on a regular basis and maintained an intimate relationship. In His sorrow, He prayed not once but continually. He knew he was betrayed by Judas and was about to be apprehended by the enemy so he prayed with humility and surrendered heart for God’s will to be fulfilled.

He was a faithful servant!

“He went away a second time and prayed, “My Father, if it is not possible for this cup to be taken away unless I drink it, may your will be done.” Matthew‬ ‭26:42‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Have you ever experienced “Gethsemane”, life-altering moments? Have you recently been diagnosed with a terminal health condition? Have you recently lost employment and don’t know how to pay the mortgage? Are you hopeless and even contemplating ending it all?

In moments of anguish and sorrow, life is overwhelmingly painful, vulnerable and unpredictable!

If you would have asked me what I would have done in previous ‘Gethsemane’ circumstances, You would have heard me say, “I’m done with it… I’m ready to quit… give me an easier task to accomplish instead…”

In these controversial or conflicting moments, we might not be able to discern what’s best or act wisely. We might act like ‘fools’ at times if we get isolated and not seek God’s wisdom.

We can either face these challenging circumstances humbly, prayerfully and ’in’ community or ‘escape’ from it all with an intent to soothe the intensity of our distress and even isolate ourselves.

By the way, Satan would enjoy us being isolated and helpless.

Jesus is reminding us today to seek the Lord for wisdom, strength and discernment with a humble and surrendered heart before we proceed with our next steps.

God’s Grace is sufficient when we are weak.

“But he said to me, “My grace is sufficient for you, for my power is made perfect in weakness.” Therefore I will boast all the more gladly about my weaknesses, so that Christ’s power may rest on me.” 2 Corinthians‬ ‭12:9‬ ‭NIV‬‬

Lisa Bevere in her book titled, “Girls with Swords”, reminded us to ‘allow adversity to be a crucible in your life that tempers your strength’.

“Isn’t that the truth?!”

Every time I persevere thru life-altering Gethsemane moments, I develop effective strategies, establish new systems for both career and personal routine, build character and most importantly I witness God’s faithfulness, wisdom, unconditional love and mercies thru it all.

Life gives us an opportunity to edify God in our good times as wells as in our Gethsemane moments, and share how much we adore Him in the midst of our deepest suffering…